Zohran Mamdani made history as the first Muslim and South Asian mayor of New York City, taking the oath of office with a Quran. This significant moment marked a departure from tradition, as Mamdani used two family Qurans for the public ceremony on Friday. The first Quran, borrowed from the New York Public Library, has a rich history. It once belonged to Arturo Schomburg, a Black historian and writer, and was part of his collection of 4,000 books sold to the library in 1926. Schomburg, a key figure in the Harlem Renaissance, was of German and Afro-Caribbean descent, and his work celebrated the cultural and intellectual achievements of New York's Black community. The second Quran, used in the private swearing-in event, was Mamdani's grandfather's.
The library praised Mamdani's choice, highlighting the Quran's connection to Schomburg and its everyday use qualities. Its small size and black and red ink suggest practicality, while its minute naskh script and binding with a floral composition hint at an Ottoman Syrian origin in the 19th century. Hiba Abid, curator of Middle Eastern and Islamic studies, emphasized the Quran's significance, noting its accessibility and place in the nation's largest public library system.
Mamdani's faith and background as an Ugandan-born American of South Asian descent were central to his campaign, emphasizing New York's diversity. He openly discussed the impact of the September 11 attacks and the rise of Islamophobia in the US. However, his political views have faced criticism, with some calling him a 'jihadist Communist' and 'terrorist' sympathizer. Despite this, Mamdani remains committed to his identity and values, stating, 'I will not change who I am, how I eat, or the faith that I’m proud to call my own.' This bold statement reflects his determination to embrace his heritage and serve the city with integrity.
